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Whaleback Inn

2.5 star property
Hotel near Van's Beach in Leland

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Whaleback Inn

Porch
Property amenity
Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior
Reception

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Housekeeping
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
1757 N Manitou Trail, Leland, MI, 49654
  • Historic Fishtown
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Manitou Island Transit
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Van's Beach
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪50 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking

  • 237 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Apartment (Cottage Suite)

Apartment (Cottage Suite) | Living area | TV

Apartment (Cottage Suite)

  • 495 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Lake View

  • 237 sq ft
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Traditional Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

  • 237 sq ft
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Lake View

  • 450 sq ft
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat

Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Single Room, 1 Queen Bed, Lakeview with Loveseat

  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Leland

On lake.Within 2 miles (3 km) of this Leland hotel, you'll find Van's Beach and Historic Fishtown. Also, Manitou Island Transit is within 2 miles (3 km) and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is within 6 miles (10 km).

What's nearby

  • Historic Fishtown - 2 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Manitou Island Transit - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Van's Beach - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 7 min drive - 5.6 miles
  • Leelanau Sands Casino - 21 min drive - 15.1 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪VI Grill - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Roman Wheel Pizza & Subs - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Boone's Prime Time Pub - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Nittolo's Seafood And Social - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Pedaling Beans Coffeehouse - ‬7 min drive

About this property

Whaleback Inn

Hotel near Van's Beach in Leland
As a guest of Whaleback Inn, you'll find a terrace, a garden, and a picnic area. WiFi is free in public spaces. Free self parking is available.

This Leland hotel is smoke free.

  • 18 guestrooms or units
  • 5 buildings
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Terrace
  • Garden
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • No smoking on site
Whaleback Inn offers 18 air-conditioned accommodations with hair dryers and complimentary toiletries. Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access.

Bathrooms include showers. Business-friendly amenities include desks and phones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Housekeeping is provided daily.

Languages

English

Similar properties

Front of property

Leland Lodge

  • Breakfast included
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
4.6 out of 5, Wonderful, 431 reviews
$366 nightly
The price is $388
Jun 23 - Jun 24
Total includes taxes and fees
Leland Lodge

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Accessibility

  • No elevator

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • TV

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Late check-out subject to availability

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Renovations and closures

The property is closed between October 27 and April 10.

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Cash is not accepted. 

Property is also known as

Whaleback Inn Leland
Whaleback Leland
Whaleback Inn Hotel
Whaleback Inn Leland
Whaleback Inn Hotel Leland

Frequently asked questions

How close is Whaleback Inn to the airport?

Whaleback Inn is 29.6 mi (45-min drive) away from the Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Whaleback Inn?

As of Jun 14, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Whaleback Inn on Jun 23, 2025 start from $319.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Whaleback Inn have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Whaleback Inn.

How close is Whaleback Inn to the beach?

This hotel is 1.3 mi (2-min drive) from Van's Beach.

Does Whaleback Inn offer free breakfast?

Whaleback Inn does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Whaleback Inn?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Leelanau Sands Casino (19-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Whaleback Inn?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Whaleback Inn?

This hotel offers free self parking.

Does Whaleback Inn have a pool?

Whaleback Inn does not have a pool.

Does Whaleback Inn have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is Whaleback Inn to downtown Leland?

Whaleback Inn is 1.1 mi away from Leland.

Whaleback Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 122 out of 144 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 15 out of 144 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 7 out of 144 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 144 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 144 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Eric

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Quiet weekend.

Nice and relaxing in woods and water setting. Loved the nature hike.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice wooded area with comfortable housing and convenient amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
View of the lake is nice, front porch socializing very nice
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I liked the newer wood & the room was very clean !
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

SUSAN

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Excellant
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

john

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The facilities and staff were first rate.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra, Fremont

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My husband and I both said we would love to revisit this resort.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

John

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

what a whaleback!

great place . innkeepers, ty and rachel very friendly . hot coffee and great muffins!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Caretakers were welcoming and warm and welcoming for our day there. Rooms were clean and comfortable. Relax outside with a beautiful view of the lake. Very peaceful.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anthony

Charming Lakefront Chateau

Drew and Rachels hospitality was amazing, Frank, the resident cat is mostly disinterested, yet friendly. The whole place is very charming and feels like a community as you walk to the breakfast bar with Hannah's fantastic muffins. Sitting on the porch with friends, food and a wonderful view of the lake, makes me sad to think of all the times ive missed being here in the past. 10/10 recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steve

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We spent to delightful nights at the Whaleback Inn. The facility is clean and tidy. The host greet you and help out with any questions you have about the area. Starting our day on the porch eating a relaxing breakfast looking out in the lake was pure bliss. We loved the peacefulness of the Whaleback Inn.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the casual feel. Enjoyed the coffee and light breakfast in the mornings. Was nice to have a kitchen on property as well w large fridge, microwave and drinking water tap. Rooms have a dorm fridge as well. Room was comfortable and bed was cozy. View of the lake off my porch. Would definitely return and recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Timothy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice stay
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Book it!

It was amazing! Great location, the inn keepers were great, room clean.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Craig

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Check in and out was easy. The room was clean and kept up very well. The property is well maintained. The inn keepers are very friendly and helpful. It is a peaceful and relaxing place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carlina, La Grange

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice view of Lake and Rachel the Innkeeper was most attentive.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Daphne

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cozy atmosphere
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lee Ann

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved our stay at the Whaleback Inn. The property is gorgeous. The rooms were comfortably appointed and very clean.It was conveniently located for day trips around the area. The view of the lake from our room and patio was just awesome....
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan

Liked: Amenities
Up on a hill, the former resort overlooks Lake Leelanau. It is rather expensive, but I found it worth it. I had to catch a passenger boat to an island off shore, and leave early. The charm is fantastic.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tom

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The lakes and water
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Judi

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The location was beautiful. Right across the street from the lake. Lovely setting with outside patio and chairs off the the room. Comfortsble bed. I was a bit disappointed that there was no coffee maker or microwave in the room and very limited continental breakfast for the price however many close restaurants. We wake up very early and like a cup in am.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Loni

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
They views were extraordinary. The rooms were spacious and the beds were so comfortable. The staff was helpful and our rooms were made up each day. The location was central to cute towns, vineyards and the state and national parks. So many great hiking trails!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marilyn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Such a welcoming experience with a stunning view.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023